Madison Iszler is reporting in the Times Union that stink bugs are invading the Capital Region, and will continue to do so during the coming weeks as the insects prepare for winter hibernation. Brown marmorated stink bugs have been appearing in homes throughout New York state since 2007, but this year they are especially widespread in Syracuse, Buffalo, the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley, said Peter Jentsch, director of the Hudson Valley Research Laboratory. The bugs are native to Asia, have brown, marbled markings and emit a pungent odor to protect themselves from predators. When they gather in a house, they produce a chemical compound that draws other stink bugs to the same area. While stink bugs are a nuisance for homeowners, they pose a greater risk for farmers, feeding on a variety of fruits and vegetables, and decimating crops. Jentsch advises homeowners to make sure there are no openings around window air conditioning units and fans, and to use caulk to seal any openings where the insects can squeeze through. Adding screens can also help, Jentsch said. Read the full story in the Times Union.